Morung Express News
Dimapur | March 1
The contentious Town Sub-Centre located in the building of the Government Middle School (GMS), Midland, would likely be relocated in three months time. The development came about at a meeting brokered by the Dimapur district administration on March 1, a day after the dispensary, run by the Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) Department, was locked up by the Dimapur Naga students Union (DNSU).
The action came following months of protests, beginning September 2024, by the DNSU, which alleged the H&FW of illegally occupying three classrooms at the government school. According to the DNSU, the H&FW has been operating a dispensary in the school building, despite an order from the Department of School Education to vacate the premises by July 5, 2024.
As disclosed by the Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang, after the meeting, the district administration will take measures to relocate the school. The meeting was attended by the Chief Medical officer of the district, DNSU executives, School Management Committee of the GMS in question, and council members of Midland colony.
DNSU President, Hinoto P Aomi said that concerns about unavailability of funds for relocating the dispensary immediately was cited by officials at the meeting. He said it was agreed to allow three-month’s time for the school to relocate, considering the fund situation and the health services provided by the sub-center, including student vaccinations. He added that they were hoping officials from the H&FW Directorate would turn up for the meeting but only the CMO turned up.
Meanwhile, more information tumbled out. Chairperson of the School Management Committee, Munthin Newmai said that land on which the GMS, Midland, stands has been encroached upon. Citing what he said was the original land record of the school, he said that it roughly measured 100x40 feet, which has today reduced to 92x32 feet.
In addition to a dispensary, he said that the school building housed an Anganwadi centre up until recently. It was moved after it was brought to the attention of the higher authorities.
It was further revealed that Rs 28 lakh was allocated by the 15th Finance Commission in 2021-22 for upgrading the dispensary.
Further, Midland colony allegedly has two councils. Commenting on this, the DC said that both parties have been urged to resolve the matter or the district administration would be forced to intervene.
